Kielce Gussie, a U.S. journalist with Vatican News, delivered the first reading at the funeral of Pope Francis, which was attended by thousands of mourners honoring his 12-year papacy. Gussie, a graduate of Mount St. Mary’s University with a degree in theology, joined Vatican News in October 2024 after working at Rome Reports. The outlet was established by Pope Francis in 2015 to enhance news reporting from the Vatican.
Her passion for the Catholic faith and travel inspired her to participate in this significant event. Gussie expressed gratitude for the opportunity, describing it as a “huge honor” and a way to thank Pope Francis. She fondly recalled meeting him twice, emphasizing how he felt more like a “grandfather” than the head of the Catholic Church, reflecting his genuine care for people.
Raised in Florida, Gussie’s dedication to journalism led her to earn a licentiate degree in church communication from the Pontifical University of Santa Croce in 2022. While at Mount St. Mary’s, she was also an athlete, competing in track and field events like the javelin and hammer throw. Her professor commended her ambition and commitment to intertwining communication and theology in her career.
Gussie’s scripture reading from the Acts of the Apostles was part of a poignant service that marked the end of an era for the Catholic community. As she shared her experiences leading up to the funeral, Gussie highlighted her deep admiration for both Pope Francis and the Catholic faith, underscoring her aspiration to serve through journalism.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.
